Safe Routes Has National Attention

Did you know that in the 1960s nearly half of all students arrived at school on foot and bikes? Now it's fewer than 15%. But people all over the US are ready to turn this trend around as they commit to helping our children enjoy healthier lives in a healthier environment.

Here's some information about Safe Routes programs.

You can even listen in as NPR reports.

Safe Routes programs help alleviate the concerns of parents who aren't walking their children to school. Here are some typical reasons parents are driving

• I have other kids, too, it's too hard to drag them all along!

Have your child join an existing group or start a group among friends and neighbors. Or consider this a healthy way for your family members to spend time together. Find ways to make it fun! Songs, stories, games like "I SPY" and a little nature exploration along the way turn a commute into an adventure.

• It takes too long!

Are all the members of your family getting their daily recommended amounts of exercise? A morning walk can actually save you time by getting everybody's exercise in early. Those extra minutes are a great investment in your good health.

• We live too far away!
  

Drive to an area that's NOT too far away, then walk the rest of the way. You'll avoid the traffic and long lines in the drop-off area and start your day refreshed. Or have your child carpool or ride the bus.

• I'm afraid something will happen to my child on the way.
  

Safe Routes programs, such as the one at Hawthorne Elementary, provide adult Route Leaders to help children get to school safely. Hawthorne has both walking and biking groups with parents and teachers assisting students.

Remember, it's not about, "I can't, because..." it's about "Here's how I can...!"

Enjoy your Safe Routes Program!